Topic Explanation:
The forum topic is about a parent seeking advice on how to prevent their 2 1/2-year-old child's colostomy pouch from ballooning at night and releasing stool odor from the filter. The parent is using a 2-piece colostomy pouch system with an adaptor ring and a gas-releasing filter, but it tends to clog with stool and balloon slightly at night.
Advice and Insights:
1. Watch the child's diet before bedtime to avoid gassy foods, such as veggies and fiber, and consult a gastroenterologist for advice on reducing gas.
2. Consider using a filterless bag during the day and adding a filter for nighttime to prevent odor issues.
3. Use a firm body pillow to prevent rolling onto the pouch at night.
4. Experiment with different solutions like attaching a plastic bag to the pouch spout to release air or using a U-shaped foam pillow to support the pouch at night.
5. Consider using eucalyptus oil drops in the pouch to manage odor.
6. Change the pouch more often, as filters may not last 24 hours and can clog with liquid.
7. Be cautious with gas-producing foods and consider consulting a doctor about using enzymes like Beano to reduce gas.
8. As the child grows older, they may start to figure out what works best for them in managing the pouch.
Helpful Insights:
- Some individuals have experienced challenges with filters clogging and leaking, leading them to change pouches more frequently.
- Using eucalyptus oil drops in the pouch has been effective in managing odor for some individuals.
- Personal experiences and creative solutions, such as using plastic bags or foam pillows, have been shared to address the issue of ballooning pouches at night.
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